US Brand Name

Canadian Brand Name

Pediapred 5

Pms-prednisoLONE

Pulmicort

Pulmicort Spacer

Descriptions

Corticosteroids (cortisone-like medicines) are used to provide relief for inflamed areas of the body. They lessen swelling, redness, itching, and allergic reactions. They are often used as part of the treatment for a number of different diseases, such as severe allergies or skin problems, asthma, or arthritis. Corticosteroids may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.

Your body naturally produces certain cortisone-like hormones that are necessary to maintain good health. If your body does not produce enough, your doctor may have prescribed this medicine to help make up the difference.

Corticosteroids are very strong medicines. In addition to their helpful effects in treating your medical problem, they have side effects that can be very serious. If your adrenal glands are not producing enough cortisone-like hormones, taking this medicine is not likely to cause problems unless you take too much of it. If you are taking this medicine to treat another medical problem, be sure that you discuss the risks and benefits of this medicine with your doctor.

These medicines are available only with your doctor's prescription.

Importance of Diet

If you will be using this medicine for a long time, your doctor may want you to:

Follow a low-salt diet and/or a potassium-rich diet.

Watch your calories to prevent weight gain.

Add extra protein to your diet.

Make certain your health care professional knows if you are already on any special diet, such as a low-sodium or low-sugar diet.